Mobile electrical power source

ABSTRACT

A portable power source ( 10 ) includes a housing ( 12 ), a stator component ( 20 ), a rotor component ( 18 ), a crank assembly ( 14 ), and a control system ( 24 ). The stator component ( 20 ) is secured to the housing ( 12 ), the rotor component ( 18 ) rotates relative to the stator component ( 20 ) and the crank assembly ( 14 ) is coupled to the rotor component ( 18 ). The crank assembly ( 14 ) is rotated by the user relative to the housing ( 12 ). As provided herein, rotation of the crank assembly ( 14 ) by the user results in rotation of the rotor component ( 18 ) relative to the stator component ( 20 ). In one embodiment, the control system ( 24 ) controls the amount of torque required to rotate the crank assembly ( 14 ). For example, the amount of torque required to rotate the crank assembly ( 14 ) is varied according to the rotational position of the crank assembly ( 14 ).

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority on U.S. Provisional applicationserial No. 60/314,147 filed on Aug. 22, 2001, the contents of which areincorporated herein by reference. This application also claims priorityon and is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 10/226,373 filedon Aug. 21, 2002, the contents of which are incorporated herein byreference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates generally to manually driven powergenerators.

BACKGROUND

[0003] Portable electronic devices are used for a variety of usefulfunctions, including (i) communications devices such as mobiletelephones, citizen band radios, family radio spectrum radio, andwireless internet devices, (ii) portable computing devices such asnotebook computers, personal digital assistants, and calculators, (iii)military electronic devices, such as night visions devices,communications devices, precision GPS, laser targeting devices, datadisplays, and computing devices, and (iv) other items such as digitalcameras, camcorders, global position satellite devices, portableelectronic games, flashlights, radios, and audio CD/MP3 players.Further, many more such types of devices are being created all the time.In some cases, the new electronic devices have become criticallyimportant to public safety such as 911 emergency service on mobiletelephones, or global position satellite devices for general aviationand marine use.

[0004] One common element in all these portable electronic devices istheir need for portable electrical power. This has been traditionallysolved by using assemblies of chemical batteries, either the one timeuse disposable batteries (such as alkaline, zinc-air), or the multipleuse rechargeable batteries (such as nickel-cadmium,nickel-metal-hydride, lead-acid, lithium-ion).

[0005] Electronic devices can only be truly portable if their powersources are always available in the field. Disposable batteries have afinite capacity. One option is to carry a sufficient supply of sparedisposable batteries. However, each of the electronic devices can have adifferent power requirement with different voltages and currents. As aresult thereof, the user may be required to carry multiple differenttypes of batteries. Further, on a long trip or mission, the user mayhave to carry multiple sets of backup batteries. Moreover, the usedbatteries create a significant waste problem because they often containtoxic chemicals such as lead or mercury. As a result thereof, in many insituations, it is not practical to carry sufficient spare batteries.

[0006] Rechargeable batteries must be near a power source to berecharged, typically, a source of 60 Hz/120V. This is generally notavailable in remote locations. Alternatively, dynamo style powergenerators have a long history of usage. However, these generators arebulky, lowpower, single voltage, single device, hard to crank,inefficient, no feedback, and/or dangerous to batteries.

[0007] In light of the above, there is the need for an efficientportable device to produce electrical energy in the field. Additionally,there is a need for a power source that can be used to generate outputcurrent and voltages to a wide range of different electronic deviceswith their various battery chemistries and power needs. Moreover, thereis a need for a power source that is relatively easy and efficient touse and control. Further, there is a need for a power source thatreduces user fatigue.

SUMMARY

[0008] The present invention is directed to power source that is poweredby a user. The power source includes a housing, a stator component, arotor component, a crank assembly, and a control system. The statorcomponent is secured to the housing, the rotor component rotatesrelative to the stator component and the crank assembly is coupled tothe rotor component. The crank assembly is rotated by the user relativeto the housing. As provided herein, rotation of the crank assembly bythe user results in rotation of the rotor component relative to thestator component.

[0009] In one embodiment, the control system controls the amount oftorque required to rotate the crank assembly. For example, the amount oftorque required to rotate the crank is varied according to therotational position of the crank. More specifically, the when the crankassembly at a first rotational position the crank torque is differentthan when the crank assembly is at a second rotational position. Inalternative embodiments, (i) when the crank assembly is at a firstrotational position the crank torque is at least approximately 2 percentgreater than when the crank assembly is at a second rotational position,(ii) when the crank assembly is at a first rotational position the cranktorque is at least approximately 5 percent greater than when the crankassembly is at a second rotational position, (iii) when the crankassembly is at a first rotational position the crank torque is at leastapproximately 10 percent greater than when the crank assembly is at asecond rotational position, or (iv) when the crank assembly is at afirst rotational position the crank torque is at least approximately 50percent greater than when the crank assembly is at a second rotationalposition. In addition, the overall drag level can be set via usercontrol so that a weaker person can select a lighter setting than a verystrong person. In this fashion, drag levels can span a typical range of200 to 500 percent from minimum to maximum level.

[0010] As provided herein, the crank torque decreases as the angularvelocity decreases and the crank torque increases as the angularvelocity increases. This torque versus speed relationship can becompletely specified with the electronics as described below.

[0011] The rotor component includes a plurality of poles and the statorcomponent includes a plurality of slots. In one embodiment, theslot/pole ratio is does not have a common factor. For example, theslot/pole ratio can be approximately 15/16. Further, the slot/pole ratiois approximately equal to 1.

[0012] A radial component gap separates the rotor component from thestator component. In one embodiment, the size of the radial componentgap varies. For example, the radial component gap varies at leastapproximately 25% between a minimum component gap and a maximumcomponent gap.

[0013] In another embodiment, the rotor component includes transitionsbetween the north poles and the south poles that are skewed.

[0014] The power source can be manually driven. In one embodiment, thepower source enables charging of electronic devices in the field whilecontrolling the output voltage and current and maintaining constantinput torque drag.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] The novel features of this invention, as well as the inventionitself, both as to its structure and its operation, will be bestunderstood from the accompanying drawings, taken in conjunction with theaccompanying description, in which similar reference characters refer tosimilar parts, and in which:

[0016]FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a powersource having features of the present invention and an electronicdevice;

[0017]FIG. 1B is a partially exploded, first perspective view of thepower source of FIG. 1A;

[0018]FIG. 1C is a partially exploded, second perspective view of thepower source of FIG. 1B;

[0019]FIG. 1D is a cross-sectional view taken on line 1D-1D in FIG. 1A;

[0020]FIG. 2A is a top view of a stator component and a rotor componenthaving features of the present invention;

[0021]FIG. 2B is a top view of another embodiment of a stator componentand a rotor component having features of the present invention;

[0022]FIG. 2C is a cut-away view taken on line 2C-2C in FIG. 2A;

[0023]FIG. 2D is a cut-away view taken on line 2D-2D in FIG. 2B;

[0024]FIG. 2E is a perspective view of one embodiment of a magnet arrayhaving features of the present invention;

[0025]FIG. 3A is a block diagram of a flyback converter having featuresof the present invention;

[0026]FIG. 3B is a block diagram of a switching converter havingfeatures of the present invention;

[0027]FIG. 3C is a block diagram of a microprocessor controller havingfeatures of the present invention;

[0028]FIG. 3D is a buck stage followed by a SEPIC stage andmicroprocessor having features of the present invention;

[0029]FIG. 3E is a firmware flowchart having features of the presentinvention;

[0030]FIG. 3F is a simplified illustration of a power source havingfeatures of the present invention;

[0031]FIG. 3G is a graph that illustrates drag torque versus arm anglefor another embodiment of the power source at a constant RPM;

[0032]FIG. 3H is a graph that illustrates drag torque versus arm anglefor one embodiment of the power source;

[0033]FIG. 3I is a graph that illustrates a variety of possible dutycycle versus rotor/crank arm speed curves;

[0034]FIG. 4 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a powersource having features of the present invention;

[0035]FIG. 5A is a perspective view of still another embodiment of apower source in a portable position, having features of the presentinvention;

[0036]FIG. 5B is a perspective view of the power source of FIG. 5A in ause position, having features of the present invention;

[0037]FIG. 6A is a perspective view of first embodiment of a powersource combination having features of the present invention;

[0038]FIG. 6B is a perspective view of second embodiment of a powersource combination having features of the present invention; and

[0039]FIG. 6C is a perspective view of third embodiment of a powersource combination having features of the present invention.

DESCRIPTION

[0040]FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a powersource 10 and an electronic device 11 that can be charged with the powersource 10. The power source 10 can be used as a manually driven, mobileand portable generator. For example, the power source 10 can weigh lessthan approximately 0.2 pounds, 0.5 pounds, 1 pounds, 2 pounds, 3 pounds,5 pounds, 10 pounds, or 20 pounds. Alternatively, for example, the powersource 10 can be designed as a stationary generator 10.

[0041] The type of electronic device 11 charged by the power source 10can vary. For example, the electronic device 11 can be portable and caninclude (i) communications devices such as mobile telephones, citizenband radios, family radio spectrum radio, and wireless internet devices,(ii) portable computing devices such as notebook computers, personaldigital assistants, and calculators, (iii) military electronic devices,such as night visions devices, communications devices, precision GPS,laser targeting devices, data displays, and computing devices, and (iv)other items such as digital cameras, camcorders, global positionsatellite devices, portable electronic games, flashlights, radios, andaudio CD/MP3 players. Alternatively, the electronic device can bestationary.

[0042] The electronic device 11 can include a battery pack 11A(illustrated in phantom) having one or more rechargeable batteries. Asprovided herein, the power source 10 can be used with batteries packs11A having different charging requirements, such as different voltagerequirements and/or different current requirements.

[0043] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1A, the power source 10 canbe operated independently of the particular electronic device 11 beingcharged.

[0044]FIGS. 1B and 1C are partially exploded perspective views of thepower source 10 of FIG. 1A. One or more of the features provided hereincan be used in BLDC generators and/or SR generators. As illustrated inFIGS. 1B and 1C, the power source 10 can include (i) a housing 12, (ii)a crank assembly 14, (iii) a gear assembly 16, (iv) a rotor component18, (v) a stator component 20, (vi) a bearing assembly 22, and (vii) acontrol system 24. The design of each of these components can be variedto suit the design requirements of the power source 10.

[0045] The housing 12 supports the components of the power source 10.The size and shape of the housing 12 can be varied to suit the designrequirements of the power source 10. For example, the housing 12illustrated in FIGS. 1B and 1C includes a first housing segment 26, asecond housing segment 28, and a third housing segment 30. The firsthousing segment 26 includes a substantially planar region 26A having anouter surface and an inner surface, and a tubular region 26B thatextends substantially perpendicularly away from the inner surface of theplanar region 26A near a periphery of the planar region 26A. The planarregion 26A further includes a raised section 26C near the end of thehousing 12 away from the control system 24. The raised section 26C isstepped up away from the outer surface of the planar region 26A so thatthe outer surface of the raised section 26C is substantially parallel tothe outer surface of the planar region 26A. The raised section 26Csubstantially surrounds a portion of the gear assembly 16. Near thecenter of the raised section 26C is a small pivot aperture (not shown)that receives a portion of the crank assembly 14. The bearing assembly22 includes a bearing (not shown) that secures the crank assembly 14 tothe housing 12 and allows the crank assembly 14 to rotate.

[0046] The second housing segment 28 is somewhat planar and rectangularshaped, and is positioned spaced apart from and substantially parallelto the first housing segment 26. The second housing segment 28 includesan aperture 34 that is substantially circular and is positioned toreceive a portion of the third housing segment 30.

[0047] The third housing segment 30 includes a generator region 36 and acontrol region 38. The generator region 36 includes a generator cavity40 that can be positioned at an end of the generator region 36 near thecontrol region 38. The generator cavity 40 is sized and shaped toreceive the rotor component 18, the stator component 20, and a portionof the bearing assembly 22. At an end of the generator region 36 awayfrom the control region 38, the third housing segment 30 includes acrescent shaped cavity 42. The generator region 36 extends substantiallyperpendicularly between the first housing segment 26 and the secondhousing segment 28 near a periphery of the second housing segment 28,and is secured to the first housing segment 26 and the second housingsegment 28. The generator region 36 has somewhat the same size and shapeas the first housing segment 26, so that the periphery of the firsthousing segment 26 substantially matches the periphery of the generatorregion 36.

[0048] The control region 38 is substantially rectangular shaped with acavity 44 that is sized and shaped to receive the control system 24 anda battery pack 46. The control region 38 extends substantiallyperpendicularly away from the second housing segment 26 and is securedto the second housing segment 28.

[0049] The first housing segment 26, the second housing segment 28 andthe third housing segment 30 cooperate to substantially surround theother elements of the power source 10 exclusive of the crank assembly14.

[0050] The first housing segment 26, the second housing segment 28 andthe third housing segment 30 can be made of a suitable, rigid material.Suitable materials include aluminum, ABS plastic, and/or steel.

[0051] The crank assembly 14, when operated by a user, causes theresulting clockwise or counterclockwise rotation of the gear assembly16. Power source 10 will work in both directions, while power source 510shown in FIG. 5B would work best with a single direction rotation. InFIGS. 1B and 1C, the crank assembly 14 includes a pivot assembly 48having a disc component 50 and the rod component 52, an arm 54, and ahandle 56 having a handle knob and a handle pin. The disc component 50has a substantially circular cross-section with a flat upper surface anda flat lower surface, and is positioned spaced apart from the outersurface of the raised section 26C of the first housing segment 26. Thedisc component 50 further includes a disc aperture that receives the rodcomponent 52. The rod component 52 is a slender rod with a substantiallycircular cross-section that extends into the disc aperture and issecured to the disc component 50. The rod component 52 secures the disccomponent 50 to the gear assembly 16.

[0052] The arm 54, as illustrated in FIGS. 1B and 1C, has a proximal endand a distal end. The proximal end has an arced cutout that receives thedisc component 50 of the pivot assembly 48. The proximal end alsoincludes apertures near either end of the arced cutout that receivesmall pins 58 that extend through the apertures and into the disccomponent 50 to secure the arm 54 to the disc component 50. The arm 54extends away from the pivot assembly 48 substantially parallel to andspaced apart from the outer surface of the first housing segment 26.Near the distal end, the arm 54 can also include a handle aperture thatreceives the handle pin and secures the handle 56 to the arm 54.Alternatively, the handle 56 can be designed without the handle pinwherein the handle knob is secured to the arm 54 with an adhesive oranother type of fastener.

[0053] As noted above, the handle 56 can include the handle knob and thehandle pin. The handle knob is shaped so that it can easily be grippedby the user and operator of the crank assembly 14. The handle 56 isdesigned so that it can easily be gripped with either the left hand orthe right hand of the user for the convenience of the user. The arm 54rotates about the pivot assembly 48 when the user applies a force to thehandle 56 in a direction substantially perpendicular to the arm 54 andsubstantially parallel to the outer surface of the first housing segment26. The power source 10 is designed so that the arm 54 can rotate aboutthe pivot assembly 48 in a clockwise or a counterclockwise (when lookdown at the first housing segment 26) direction to generate power. Theparticular direction of rotation of the arm 54 about the pivot assembly48 depends on the ease and convenience of the user.

[0054] The gear assembly 16 mechanically couples the crank assembly 14to the rotor component 18. The gear assembly 16 can have a gear ratio ofthe input to output of 1:1, greater than 1:1, or less than 1:1. Forexample, with the design provided herein, the gear assembly 16 can havea gear ratio of between approximately 3:1 and 16:1. For example, inalternate embodiments, the gear assembly 16 can have a gear ratio ofapproximately 4:1, 5:1, 6:1, 7:1, 8:1, 9:1, 10:1, 11:1, 12:1, 13:1,14:1, or up to 25:1. The power source 10 provided herein is a highenergy density generator that allows for the use of a lower gear ratio,therefore resulting in lower stresses and wear on the mechanicalelements such as gear teeth and bearing assembly 22. This benefitfurther results in lower cost and longer system life.

[0055] The rod component 52 of the crank assembly 14 extends through theraised region 26C of the first housing segment 26 and is secured to thegear assembly 16. In FIG. 1B, the gear assembly 16 includes a first gear60, a second gear 62 and a third gear 64. The first gear 60 is securedwith the rod component 52 to the disc component 50. The first gear 60 ispositioned substantially parallel to and spaced apart from the innersurface of the raised section 26C of the first housing segment 26. Asthe user inputs a force to the handle 56 of the crank assembly 14, thearm 54 of the crank assembly 14 rotates about the pivot assembly 48. Asthe arm 54 rotates about the pivot assembly 48, the pivot assembly 48and, more specifically, the rod component 52 also rotates. The rotationof the rod component 52 further causes the first gear 60 to rotate. Thefirst gear 60 is enmeshed with the second gear 62 so that the rotationof the first gear 60 causes the second gear 62 to rotate in the oppositedirection. The second gear 62 is enmeshed with the third gear 64 so thatthe rotation of the second gear 62, in turn, causes rotation of thethird gear 64. The third gear 64 is secured to the rotor component 18.As a result thereof, rotation of the third gear 64 results in rotationof the rotor component 18.

[0056] Alternatively, the power source 10 can be designed so that thecrank assembly 14 directly drives the rotor component 18. In thisembodiment, the power source 10 does not include the gear assembly 16.Still alternatively, the gear assembly 16 can include more than three orless than three gears.

[0057] The rotor component 18 and the stator component 20 cooperate toconvert mechanical energy from the rotation of the crank assembly 14 toelectrical energy. In FIGS. 1B and 1C, the rotor component 18 issomewhat disk shaped and includes a pair of rotor pins 66 that extendalong the central axis of the rotor component 18 from either end of therotor component 18. The rotor pins 66 are spaced apart from each other,essentially forming a discontinued line along the central axis of therotor component 18. The rotor component 18 rotates about the rotor pins66.

[0058] The stator component 20 is substantially ring shaped andsubstantially encircles the rotor component 18. The stator component 20further includes at least one bump 68 along an outer edge that fits intoat least one indentation 70 along the outer edge of the generator cavity40. As shown in FIGS. 1B and 1C, the stator component 20 can include twobumps 68 that interact and fit into two indentations 70 in the generatorcavity 40 to inhibit rotation of the stator component 20. Alternatively,the stator component 20 can include more than two or less than two bumps68, and the generator cavity 40 can include more than two or less thantwo indentations 70. Also alternatively, the stator component 20 caninclude one or more indentations 70 that coincide with one or more bumps68 in the generator cavity. Still alternately, the stator component 20can be secured to the housing 12 in another fashion.

[0059] In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, thepositions of the rotor component 18 and the stator component 20 can bereversed so that the rotor component 18 is substantially ring shaped andsubstantially encircles the stator component 20.

[0060] As provided herein, one of the rotor component 18 and the statorcomponent 20 includes a magnet array 72 having one or more magnets andthe other of the stator component 20 and the rotor component 18 includesone or more turns of wire 74. The multiple turns of wire 74 can be madeof copper or another electrically conductive material that is embeddedin an epoxy or another type of adhesive, the purpose of which is toreduce acoustic noise and improve thermal heat dissipation.

[0061] In FIGS. 1B and 1C, the stator component 20 includes the multipleturns of wire 74, and the rotor component 18 includes the magnet array72. Alternately, the power source 10 may be designed so that the statorcomponent 20 includes the magnet array 72 and the rotor component 18includes the multiple turns of wire 74.

[0062] The bearing assembly 22 supports the rotor component 18 and thegear assembly 16 relative to the housing 12 and allows the rotorcomponent 18 and gear assembly 16 to rotate relative to the housing 12.In FIGS. 1B and 1C, the bearing assembly 22 includes multiple, spacedapart bearings 80.

[0063] The control system 24 controls charging of the electronic device11 (illustrated in FIG. 1A). In one embodiment, the control system 24controls the torque at the crank assembly 14 that is experienced by theuser. In one embodiment, the control system 24 constantly monitors theinput and output parameters of the power source 10 and provides visualfeedback to the user as to the progress of the power generation process.Depending upon the embodiment, the control system 24 can perform one ormore of the features of (i) adjusting the torque experienced by the userduring rotation of the crank assembly 14, (ii) automatic detection ofthe load voltage required to charge the electronic device 11, (iii)allow for the hookup of multiple power sources 10 to charge theelectronic device 11, and/or (iv) detect and configure to charge variouscustom battery types.

[0064] In one embodiment, the control system 24 includes a display 80, auser input 82 and a control board 84 (illustrated in phantom). Thedisplay 80 can display one or more of the functions of the power source10. For example, the display 80 can display one or more of the features(i) the rate of charging of the electronic device 11, e.g. somewhatsimilar to a gas gage for a car, (ii) the estimated additional timerequired to charge the electronic device 11, (iii) the battery type ofthe electronic device 11 being charged, (iv) voltage, amps, watts beingdelivered to the device/battery, (v) minutes of device usage stored suchas talktime on a cellphone, (vi) battery temperature, state-of-health,and/or (vii) moving graphic to help user maintain optimum cranking pace.

[0065] In one embodiment, the display 80 is a liquid crystal display.Alternatively, for example, the display 80 can include one or more gagesor other type of monitors such as LEDs.

[0066] The user input 82 allows the user to communicate instructions tothe control board 84 as well as to the display 80. For example, the userinput 84 allows the user to specify the required charging conditions andtermination conditions by specifying particular voltages, output power,etc., or by selecting among several previously defined battery types orelectronic devices (ex: cellphone types). Further, the user input 82 canallow the user to adjust desired crank torque drag up or down for theconvenience of the individual user.

[0067] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1C, the user input 82includes a plurality of buttons 86 that are electrically connected tothe control board 84. The user can depress and/or move the buttons 86 togive instructions to the control board 84. Alternatively, for example,the user input 82 can include one or more knobs or the user input 82 canbe voice activated.

[0068] The control board 84 acts as the central component of the powersource 10, coordinating all monitoring, control, and status displayfunctions. Further, the control board 84 can perform the functions ofthe control system 24 described above. In one embodiment, the controlboard 84 firstly accepts the input from the user with the user input 82specifying the target battery charging requirements of voltage andcurrent, and termination conditions of voltage, NDV or temperature forthe electronic device 11. This feature allows the power source 10 toaccommodate many different voltages, currents, etc. of the many types ofbattery chemistries. Additionally, commands such as desired crank dragare specified here. The functions of the control board 84 are describedin more detail below.

[0069] In one embodiment, the power source 10 includes the internalbattery pack 46. This allows for more rapid human energy input than manysmall portable devices can accept. Additionally, the internal batterypack 46 can accommodate more rapidly fluctuating voltages and currentsthan would be tolerated by many electronic devices 11. The power source10 can also include a bypass circuit so that even if the internalbattery pack 46 is dead, the power source 10 can still charge theelectronic device 11. As provided herein, the battery pack 46 caninclude one or more rechargeable batteries 88, such as nickel-cadmium,nickel-metal-hydride, lead-acid, and/or lithium-ion.

[0070]FIG. 1D is a cut-away view of the power source 10. FIG. 1Dillustrates that the rotor component 18 and the stator component 20 areconcentric to each other. The rotor component 18 rotates about a centralaxis 90 while the stator component 20 remains stationary. Equivalently,the order could be reversed with the rotor spinning external to thestator.

[0071]FIG. 2A is a top view of a stator component 220A and a rotorcomponent 218A that can be used in the power source 10 of FIG. 1A. Inthis embodiment, the rotor component 218A includes 10 poles 200A and thestator component 220A includes 15 slots 202A. Thus, the slot/pole ratiois 15/10. Stated another way, the pole/slot ratio has a common factor.For 3 phase generators, the number of slots and the number of poleshaving a common factor can be wound with a simple ABCABC . . . patternwhere A,B,C refer to the 3 winding phases, and uppercase letters refersto winding coils clockwise around each tooth shank. A lower case letterindicates winding a coil counter-clockwise around each tooth shank.Other examples of slot/pole ratios include 9slot/12pole, 9slot/6pole,and 6slot/8pole. These examples have the virtue of an obvious windingpattern—ABCABC . . . with all teeth wound clockwise, and each 3^(rd)tooth belonging to the same phase. However, common factor pole/slotratio generators can have relatively high cogging torques.

[0072]FIG. 2B is a top view of another embodiment of the statorcomponent 220B and the rotor component 218B that can be used in thepower source 10 of FIG. 1A. In this embodiment, the rotor component 218Bincludes 16 poles 200B and the stator component 220B includes 15 slots202B. Thus, the slot/pole ratio is 15/16. Further, the least commonmultiple of this design is 240. Stated another way, the pole/slot ratiodoes not have a common factor that evenly divides into the number ofpoles or slots and the power source has a fractional pole/slot ratio. Inthis embodiment, the winding pattern can be AaAaABbBbBCcCcC where theuppercase letters refers to winding coils clockwise around each toothshank and the lower case letters indicate winding a coilcounter-clockwise.

[0073] Alternatively, the stator component 220B and the rotor component218B can be designed with fractional pole slot ratios, such as15slot/14pole, 9slot/8pole, 9slot/10pole, 21slot/18pole, or21slot/20pole. These examples have a least common multiple of 210, 72,90, 378, or 420 respectively.

[0074] The fractional pole/slot ratio designs can have a smaller coggingtorques than common factor pole/slot ratio designs. Additionally, thelack of a common factor and a relatively high least common multiplereduces the magnitude and increases the frequency of the cogging cycles.This results in very smooth motion and rotation of the crank assembly.

[0075] Further, the stator component 220B and the rotor component 218Billustrated in FIG. 2B have a pole/slot ratio that is very close to 1.Higher strength generators occur when the pole/slot ratios are closestto 1, because this maximizes rotor/stator magnetic coupling. Examples ofsuitable alternative pole/slot ratios have a value of approximately 0.7;0.8; 0.9; 1; 1,1; 1.2; and 1.3.

[0076] As provided herein, high vibration and low generator strength canbe avoided by using pole/slot ratios with no common factors, and havingpole/slot ratios close to 1. Further, these features can inhibit“cogging”, e.g. relatively large uncomfortable torque vibrations to theuser when cranking that can also cause high acoustic noise.

[0077]FIG. 2C is a cut-away view of the stator component 220A and therotor component 218A of FIG. 2A. FIG. 2C illustrates that the outercircumference of the rotor component 218A is spaced apart from the innerperimeter of the stator component 220A by a radial component gap 204Athat is filled with air. In this embodiment, the radial component gap204A is substantially constant.

[0078]FIG. 2D is a cut-away view of the stator component 220B and therotor component 218B of FIG. 2B. FIG. 2D illustrates that the outercircumference of the rotor component 218B is spaced apart from the innerperimeter of the stator component 220B by a radial component gap 204Bthat is filled with air. In this embodiment, the component gap 204Bvaries around the circumference of the rotor component 218B. Forexample, in this embodiment, the profile of the tooth head 206 of thestator component 220B adjacent to the rotor component 218B is such thatthe radial component gap 204B is smallest at the center of each tooth206 and widest near the edges of each tooth.

[0079] As an example, the component gap 204B can vary approximately 5%,10%, 20%, 30%, or 50%. Stated another way, in alternative embodiments,the radial component gap 204B can have (i) a minimum component gap atthe tooth center of approximately 0.2 mm and a maximum component gap atthe tooth edges of approximately 0.35; (ii) a minimum component gap atthe tooth center of approximately 0.5 mm and a maximum component gap atthe tooth edges of approximately 0.8 mm; (iii) a minimum component gapat the tooth center of approximately 0.15 mm and a maximum component gapat the tooth edges of approximately 0.25 mm; or (iv) a minimum componentgap at the tooth center of approximately 1.0 mm and a maximum componentgap at the tooth edges of approximately 1.5 mm.

[0080] In this embodiment, the distal end of each tooth forms a somewhatcurved, e.g. convex surface.

[0081] As provided herein, by varying the airgap between the rotorcomponent 218B and stator component 220B, the amount of coggingexperienced by the user for a particular rotor and stator design isreduced.

[0082] An additional design feature available for both BLDC generatorsand SR generators is to include a stator airgap to be both radial andaxial. This can be accomplished with partially interdigitated lam androtor component iron throughout the z-height, or only on the top andbottom ends

[0083] In another embodiment, the stator component and the rotorcomponent can create higher frequency magnetic fluctuation by notching.This causes faster cycle speeds that result in higher generated energy.In some cases, this may allow the gear assembly to be eliminatedentirely independent of whether a BLDC generator or a SR generator isbeing used.

[0084]FIG. 2E is a perspective view of one embodiment of a magnet array272 that can be used in the rotor component. In this embodiment, themagnet array 272 includes a single multiply magnetized permanent magnetconstructed to form alternating north and south poles. The magnet array272 can use high energy sintered NdBFe with strengths of betweenapproximately 40-50 MGOe. Alternatively, the magnet array 272 can havestrengths of between approximately 30-60 MGOe, 30-50 MGOe, or 40-60MGOe. This very strong magnet material allows the power source 10 to bevery compact in size, but requires special features to accomplishmaximum electrical output in minimum physical volume.

[0085] In FIG. 2E, the single-piece cylindrical magnet ring magnet array272 is magnetized so that the transition 280 between adjacent northpoles (N) and south poles (S) is skewed. Stated another way, the magnetarray 272 is centered about a magnet axis 282 and the transition 280 isat an angle 284 relative to the magnet axis 282. For example, the anglecan at least approximately 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, or60 degrees.

[0086] In an alternate embodiment, the magnet array can include multiplediscrete magnets that are secured together into an annular shaped ring.

[0087] Additionally, the magnet array 272 can have unique dimensionswhere the outside diameter 276 is much larger than the height 278 of themagnet array 272. In alternative embodiments, the magnet array 22 has aratio of outside diameter 276 to height 278 of at least approximately2.5:1, 3:1, 4:1 or 5:1.

[0088] With the internal rotor component 18, this relationship canaccommodate shaft bearings whose z-height is below the lam stack height.This is in contrast to generators that are typically 2:1 with shaftbearings above and below the stator lams reducing this ratio to 1:1 orless.

[0089] Referring back to FIG. 2B, rotation of the rotor component 218Bcauses the magnetic fields created by the magnet poles of the rotorcomponent 218B to pass through the multiple turns of wire of the statorcomponent 220B. The passage of the wire through the magnetic fieldcreated by the magnet poles of the magnet array 272 causes a fluctuatingmagnetic flux to pass through the stator component 218B, which inducesfluctuating voltages in the multiple turns of stator wire according toFaraday's Law. The magnitude of and frequency of the induced phases'fluctuating voltages depends on the strength of the flux and frequencyof passage through the magnet poles. Higher pole strengths and fasterpassage of the multiple turns of wire through the alternating north andsouth poles produces proportionally higher generated voltages and higherpossible electrical energy production.

[0090] For a generator the efficiency (η) of governed by the followingformulas: $\begin{matrix}{\eta = \frac{Z}{1 + Z}} \\{P = {{Km}^{2}G^{2}W^{2}\frac{Z}{( {1 + Z} )^{2}}}}\end{matrix}$

[0091] Where P is power out [watt], Z is load/generator impedance ratio,W is handle speed [rad/s], G is the gear ratio, and Km is the motorconstant

[V−S/{square root}Ω]

[0092]FIG. 31 illustrates a variety of possible duty cycle versusrotor/crank arm speed curves. In one embodiment, a constant duty cyclecould be implemented. This is illustrated as straight line 357 in FIG.31. With a single-stage flyback converter, this would result in a cranktorque that gets harder as the crank arm is turned faster. The usercould select a different similar duty cycle curve. This is illustratedas straight line 359 in FIG. 31. In this case, a similar profile of thecrank torque which gets harder at higher speeds would be obtained. Butthe overall levels at all speeds would be harder. This is similar toselecting a higher bicycle gear ratio. The curved profile 361 of FIG. 31illustrate that any shape curve can be implemented offering betterergonomics than a single constant duty cycle. In a similar fashion,another similar curve 363 could be user-selected offering a higheroverall level of effort. It is to be understood that more than just 2curves per family could be easily implemented and selected by the user.

[0093] The present invention utilizes a relatively low gear ratio (G)and a relatively high motor constant (Km). As provided herein, the powersource 10 has a motor constant (Km) of at least approximately 50e-3,70e-3, 100e-3, or 200e-3 [V-S/sqrt(ohm)].

[0094] In one embodiment, the control board 84 (illustrated in FIG. 1C)includes a first relay, a second relay, a third relay, a fourth relay, aplurality of sensors, a first converter and a second converter.

[0095] In one embodiment, the first converter rectifies the AC phasevoltages to a positive voltage, e.g. DC. This can be accomplishedthrough use of a simple diode bridge used for BLDCMs, or an activelydriven and switched transistor array used for SRMs. The fluctuating,rectified voltage is a direct and unavoidable result of the varyingcrank speed produced by the user. While the human input energy producesfluctuating voltage, the target batteries to be charged typicallyrequire precise constant voltage.

[0096] In one embodiment, the second converter is a switching DC-to-DCconverter that can convert an input DC voltage to an output DC voltageby varying the duty cycle of a pulse train (a pulse width modulator orPWM). The second converter helps enable the generator to directly chargethe electronic device at any required voltage or current levels.

[0097] One example of a suitable second converter is a Buck-Boost-typeconverter that can be used to produce output voltage equal to negativeD/(1-D) times the input voltage. D is the duty cycle of the PWM switch,which would be 0.25 if the switch were on for ¼ the time and off for ¾of the time. This feature can be taken advantage of so that if the humaninput voltage varies, the duty cycle D of the PWM can be varied andstill produce any constant or varying output voltage above or below theinput voltage that is desired to drive the target battery load voltage.

[0098] A non-dual stage analog convertor is also possible. FIG. 3Aillustrates an example of a single stage flyback convertor. It displaysseveral useful properties as already discussed. It converts voltageaccording to nD/(1-D), where n is the transformer turns ratio. It iscapable of delivering power to a load that may be above or below theinput generator voltage. When driven with a constant duty cycle PWMwaveform as in FIG. 3B, it has the desirable characteristics that morecurrent will be driven if the crank assembly is turned faster, and lesscurrent will be driven as the crank assembly is turned slower. Thismeans that faster cranking will increase the torque, while slowercranking will reduce it, just as desired for comfort. With this design,even at slow cranking speeds, the battery will still be charging anddirectly driving into a battery. This contrasts with simple diode bridgerectifiers which only charge loads when the input crank speeds are highenough to generate a voltage above the battery load voltage. The PWMwave form illustrated in FIG. 3B is at constant frequency, but need notbe.

[0099] In an alternative embodiment, a full-wave rectification techniqueis utilized. With this design, charging stops when the power source isturned too slowly to produce voltage higher than the battery stack.

[0100] Additionally, the effort required at any crank assemblyrotational speed can be increased by changing the duty cycle to theconvertor as illustrated in FIG. 3B. At a higher duty cycle, the torquewill increase or decrease according to crank assembly speed, as before.But the overall levels will be higher than before. This enables torquecontrol somewhat similar to changing gears on a bicycle. Furthermore,fine tuning the PWM duty cycle as the crank assembly is turned throughits 360 degrees can give higher drag during strong parts of the stroke,and lower drag during weaker parts of the stroke.

[0101] Varying PWM duty cycles can be produced by a microprocessorarrangement as illustrated in FIG. 3C. The RPM of the power source andcrank handle as well as its position can be read for example by samplingthe voltage at a single generator phase as shown. And appropriate outputvoltage levels can be sent to oscillators to generate PWM signals andenable/reset convertor chips as shown. Additionally, reading user inputand driving displays is also readily implemented as shown.

[0102]FIG. 3D illustrates a dual stage convertor with microprocessorcontrol. The first stage is a buck stage that reduces the inputgenerator voltage to a controlled lower value to charge a super cap orinternal battery well. The power is then passed to a SEPIC switchingconvertor than drives loads above or below the intermediate stagevoltage. It has similar capabilities of altering the crank drag torquewhen driven by different duty cycles as seen in FIG. 3C.

[0103]FIG. 3E is a firmware flowchart that details the operation of thecircuit board. As cranking is initiated and voltage is produced, themicroprocessor comes alive and executes a sequence of steps toinitialize itself and reset the various convertor circuit chips. Apolling loop is then entered into which monitors crank rpm, position,and monitors load voltage and current, and looks for any user buttonpresses. The procedure computes and stores progress such as energydelivered so far, battery conditions such as temperature, etc. asearlier described. It also drives the display for all user information.

[0104] Additionally, human input torque capability is typically afunction of the hand and arm position and direction of applied force,hence of crank angular position. In one embodiment, the control systemadjusts the crank torque as a function of crank angle so that the dragis higher at the stronger arm positions and lower at the weaker armpositions as the crank is rotated through 360 degrees. Essentially anyprofile of crank torque versus rpm or angle can be readily implementedusing this approach.

[0105]FIG. 3F is a simplified illustration of a power source 310 withthe housing 312 and the arm 354 of the crank assembly 314 at eightdifferent rotational positions. In FIG. 3F, the arm 354 in (i) the firstposition 300A is at approximately 0 degrees, (ii) the second 300B is atapproximately 45 degrees, (iii) the third position 300C is atapproximately 90 degrees, (vi) the fourth position 300D is atapproximately 135 degrees, (v) the fifth position 300E is atapproximately 180 degrees, (vi) the sixth position 300F is atapproximately 225 degrees, (vii) in the seventh position 300G is atapproximately 270 degrees, and (viii) the eighth position 300H is atapproximately 315 degrees. It should be noted that the illustrations ofthe positions 300A-300H are for convenience of the reader and can bevaried.

[0106] In one embodiment, for example, (i) the torque experienced by theuser can be less at the first position 300A than the second position300B, (ii) the torque experienced by the user can be less at the secondposition 300B than the third position 300C, (iii) the torque experiencedby the user can be more at the third position 300C than the fourthposition 300D, (iv) the torque experienced by the user can be more atthe fourth position 300D than the fifth position 300F, (v) the torqueexperienced by the user can be more at the fifth position 300F than thesixth position 300G, (vi) the torque experienced by the user can be moreat the sixth position 300F than the seventh position 300G, and (vii) thetorque experienced by the user can be more at the eighth position 300Hthan the seventh position 300G. In this example, the torque varies as afunction of position. At higher or lower speeds, the same behavior canbe implemented at a corresponding higher or lower torque level.

[0107]FIG. 3G is a graph that illustrates crank torque versus the armrotational position for a substantially constant rotational speed. FIG.3G illustrates that the torque experienced by the user varies accordingto the rotational position of the arm.

[0108]FIG. 3H is an alternate graph that illustrates crank torque versusthe arm rotational position for a substantially constant rotationalspeed for a different design. FIG. 3H also illustrates that the torqueexperienced by the user varies according to the rotational position ofthe arm.

[0109] For a substantially constant rotational speed, the differencebetween the maximum crank torque experienced by the user at onerotational position and the minimum crank torque experience by the userat another rotational position can vary. For example for a substantiallyconstant rotational speed, in alternative embodiments, the maximum cranktorque can be at least approximately 2, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40,45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 80, 90, 100, 125, 150, 175, 200, 250, 300, 350,400, or 500 percent greater than the minimum crank torque experience bythe user.

[0110] For alternative example embodiments, a substantially constantrotational speed is within 5%, 10% or 20%.

[0111] Actively controlling the crank torque drag, as discussed above,can be a highly desirable feature of the power source. For example, asthe user is slowing down, the torque required to rotate the crankassembly is reduced. With this design, as rotational velocity decreases,crank torque is decrease. This can be desired because the user probablyis slowing down because he/she is fatigued. Similarly, as cranking speedis increased, the crank torque required to rotate the crank assembly israised. In this case, the user is probably speeding up since he/she isfeeling strong. This is superior to the typical commercially availablepower circuitry which maintain a constant wattage output. In thisundesirable, but typical case, as the user slows down, the dragincreases.

[0112] The relationship between the rotational velocity and the cranktorque can be varied to suit the design requirements of the powersystem. For example, in one embodiment a change of rotational velocityof approximately 5% results in a change in crank torque of approximately1%. Alternatively, (i) a change of rotational velocity of approximately10% results in a change in crank torque of approximately 10%; a changeof rotational velocity of approximately 15% results in a change in cranktorque of approximately 20%; and a change of rotational velocity ofapproximately 20% results in a change in crank torque of approximately50%.

[0113] Additionally, the user input 82 can allow the user to inputdesired crank torque drag for the convenience of the individual user.With this design, power source 10 allows the user to maintain usercomfort by allowing the user to set the cranking drag higher or lowerfor any speed at which they wish to operate. The battery charge rate isactively controlled so that the crank torque to the user is maintainedas specified irrespective of cranking speed. Stated another way, thecharge rate is actively controlled to set a comfortable torque forrotating the crank assembly 14. Different people have different desiresfor cranking torques and speeds. This feature can be implemented viamicroprocessor code in table lookup or formula fashion.

[0114] In an alternative embodiment, the power source is set to delivera constant battery current charging rate (constant power). This is easyto implement, but results in crank drag that varies according to speed.If the crank speed is lowered, the crank drag torque is increased tomake the charging power rate constant (power=torque×speed). Similarly,as cranking speed is increased, the crank torque is lowered to againmake the charging power rate constant.

[0115] In one embodiment, the control board must have power to beginoperation, although the required power is very low. The circuits on thecontrol board have features that can produce sufficient voltage tocharge a cap or supercap from a power off state with only human crankingand no cpu help. This is a unique power up feature. This can naturallybe done with diode rectifiers for BLDC generators. For SR generators, asmall magnet near the plurality of teeth of the rotor componentproducing modulating e-m fields and a single coil driving a diode bridgecan serve provide this unique power up feature.

[0116] When the user input includes a certain power level, the controlboard uses control loops to bring the system from power off to a knowngood state by slowly ramping up to the power requested by the user. Thisavoids trying to produce impossible output levels. In the case where alower output level can be accomplished with two distinct crank torquesat some fixed crank speed, the control board ensures that the lower,more efficient crank torque is always chosen.

[0117] Many of the features of the present invention are implemented bysuitable algorithms that are executed by the control board. For example,all voltages, currents, temperature, time, crank position and velocityare monitored by the software routines.

[0118] In one embodiment, the control system automatically determinesthe presence and power requirements of an unknown load attached to thepower source. For example, the flow source slowly ramps up the voltageuntil it sees current flowing. The control board can then examine thevoltage at this point and choose a suitable safe default charging ratefor the device.

[0119] The control system receives the newly processed information fromthe user input and transfers that information to power circuitry asdata, and analog level, or PWM pulse train, ultimately to set theswitching waveform of the power convertors through the second relay sothat the output can be controlled to achieve the desired output power,etc.

[0120] During the operation of the power source 10, the control systemmonitors the output voltage and the current that are actually beinggenerated. A third relay transfers this information back to the controlboard.

[0121] The control board then transfers all input and output informationto the display through the fourth relay, so the user can monitor theprogress of the generation process. The display can provide status ofvarious input and output levels such as charging rate, chargingefficiency, joules delivered (gas gauge), output voltage, temperature,etc. It can use engineering units such as amps, coulombs, joules, volts,or user units such as cellphone talk time, hours of game play, percentfull, charging efficiency, etc. Additionally, moving graphic displayscan be employed to guide and pace users to the most ideal speeds andoffer motivational tools such as progress bars and other animations toreduce the boredom during longer charging operations.

[0122] Moreover, the control system can test for and display faultconditions, such as damaged batteries in the electronic device 11(illustrated in FIG. 1A).

[0123] The plurality of sensors can be included to ensure that the powersource is producing power as required to charge whatever mechanicaldevice, through the battery pack, needs to be charged at that time. Theplurality of sensors can be arranged so that some of the plurality ofsensors are provided on the output load side and some of the pluralityof sensors are provided on the input generator side.

[0124] The output voltage, current, and temperature are measured at theoutput side, or battery side. These are useful for monitoringbattery-charging conditions in order to keep voltages at proper levelsand to avoid overcharge. Different battery chemistries have differentcharging voltage requirements and charge termination conditions.Tracking current and voltage allows for safe charging and accuratedetermination of fully charged state by known methods such as aspecified end of charge voltage, or negative ΔV when the voltage dropsoff by a specific amount near full charge. Additionally, terminationbased on high cell voltage temperature being reached is also implementedvia the temperature sensor.

[0125] There are also voltage and current sensors on the input side, thegenerator side, that are used by the control board for propercommutation of the coil phases. The crank torque (or drag) can bedirectly measured with a torque sensor such as a strain gauge oralternatively inferred by voltage and current measurements on thebattery terminals or the generator stator coil phases. One examplemethod is that in a BLDCM generator, the coil current is proportional tocrank torque (by constant Kt). The crank angle and rotation rate canalso be measured by an angular sensor such as 3 Hall devices or moresimply by counting phase voltage cycles as the poles pass by. Thisinformation is used for maintaining the crank torque as specified by theuser and also as a function of crank position.

[0126]FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of thepower source 410. In this embodiment, the power source 410 (Illustratedas a box) is embedded within an existing mobile electronic device 411(illustrated as a box). In this embodiment, some of the components ofthe power source 10 described above are may not be necessary in thepower source 410. For example, the user input 82, the display 80 and thecontrol board 84 as described above can be integrated into the userinput 482, display 480, and the control board 484 of the electronicdevice 411.

[0127] As examples, the combined electronic device 411 can be portableand can include (i) communications devices such as mobile telephones,citizen band radios, family radio spectrum radio, and wireless internetdevices, (ii) portable computing devices such as notebook computers,personal digital assistants, and calculators, (iii) military electronicdevices, such as night visions devices, communications devices,precision GPS, laser targeting devices, data displays, and computingdevices, and (iv) other items such as digital cameras, camcorders,global position satellite devices, portable electronic games,flashlights, radios, and audio CD/MP3 players. Alternatively, forexample, the combined electronic device 411 can be stationary.

[0128]FIG. 5A illustrates another embodiment of power source 510 in aportable position 502. In this embodiment, the power source 510 includesa housing 512, a crank assembly 514 having a pair of pedals 508, and astand assembly 506 having a plurality of legs 509. In the portableposition 502, the pedals 508 and the legs 509 are folded against thehousing 512 to reduce the size of the power source 510. The power source510 can include components similar to the power source 10 illustrated inFIGS. 1A-1D.

[0129]FIG. 5B illustrates the power source of FIG. 5A in a use position504. In this position, the distal ends of the legs 509 of the standassembly 506 are rotated away from the housing 512 and support thehousing 512 above the ground (not shown). Further, in the use position,the pedals 508 are rotated away from the housing 512. The number of legs509 can be varied. For example, the stand assembly 506 can include threeor four legs 509. Alternatively, the housing 512 could be designed tosupport the housing 512 in an upright position.

[0130] The pedals 508 are adapted to be engaged by the feet of the user.The pedals 508 can go up and down or the pedals 508 can spin. Differentmethods exist to ensure that unidirectional rotation exists for the dualpedal 508 operated power source 510. In one embodiment, each pedal 508is adapted so that it pivots on an arm applying unidirectional rotation.A clutch can be used to ensure unidirectional rotation on each pedal508.

[0131] In another embodiment, a rack can be positioned under each pedal508 that engages a combination of gears and clutches on the arm toensure unidirectional rotation. And a return spring can forcefullyreturn the pedal to the upper position after it has been pressed fullyto the bottom position in preparation for the next power stroke.

[0132] In yet another embodiment, the pedals 508 are once again adaptedto pivot on arms. In this embodiment, the pedals 508 can be designed sothat horizontal pedal surfaces push two cams that are rigidly mounted tothe arm. In this embodiment, the pedals operate 180 degrees out of phasedue to each cam mounting position. In still another embodiment of a dualpedal operated crank assembly, the pedals can be mounted on the arm oron a second arm with a transmission (chain or idler gears) to cause therotation of the gear assembly. In this embodiment, the pedals operatesimilar to a bicycle with no clutches involved in the operation.

[0133] In a dual pedal embodiment of this invention, the arm can bedesigned so that the pivot assembly is substantially centrally locatedalong the length of the arm, and the arm extends away from the pivotassembly in opposite directions. In this embodiment, instead of a handleconnected at the distal end of the arm, pedals are connected at eitherend of the arm so that a force can be generated to rotate the arm aboutthe pivot assembly in a manner similar to the motion of pedaling abicycle.

[0134] In another embodiment of the present invention, the handle 56(illustrated in FIG. 1B) can be replaced with a pump. In thisembodiment, the pump is designed with a cylinder so that verticaldown-up strokes on the cylinder drive the arm through the use of aclutch. The pump method operates in a manner similar to that of anupright bicycle pump.

[0135] Alternatively, the crank assembly can be designed so that it canoperate with the handle or the pedals, i.e. the handle and pedals areinterchangeable. In this embodiment, the user can configure the crankassembly in the field by attaching the handle when a minimal size crankassembly is desired. When maximum power is desired, the user can easilyremove the handle and replace with the pedals for operation.

[0136]FIG. 6A is a perspective view of first embodiment of a powersource combination 600A and an electronic device 611A having features ofthe present invention. In this embodiment, the power source combination600A includes a plurality of power sources 610A that are electricallyconnected together. In this embodiment, each power source 610A can havefeatures similar to the power source 10 described above and illustratedin FIG. 1A. The number of power sources 610A utilized in the powersource combination 600A can be varied. For example, in FIG. 6A, thepower source combination 600A includes three power sources 610A.Alternatively, the power source combination 600A can include more thanthree or less than three power sources 610A.

[0137] With this design two or more power sources 610 can cooperate tocharge one or more batteries of the electronic device 611. In oneembodiment of the power source combination 600, each power sources 610individually raises its output voltage until current starts to flow. Theindividual power sources 610 monitor and regulate the current at theapproximately constant output voltage (set by load battery chemistry,temperature, and charging conditions) and thereby control how many wattsare delivered. One of the purposes of controlling the outputted wattsfrom each power sources 610 is that this influences how much drag isfelt by the user who is operating the power sources 610, whether thecrank assembly is operated with the handle or the pedals. In thiscombination, information can be communicated back to each of thecooperating users as to whether the battery is nearing full charge, oris charging too fast. This can be monitored through the use of a dataline, thermocouples, or other similar monitoring devices.

[0138] In one embodiment of the power source combination 600, each powersources 610 is capable of delivering energy to the battery of theelectronic device 611 regardless of its voltage. So it is also possibleto hook the outputs of multiple power sources 610 in parallel to combinetheir energy and thus charge a battery more rapidly. A complication tothe power source combination 600 is that a battery charging too rapidlyneeds to be able to communicate this to the multiple power sources 610so that they slow down. This can be done via a battery-to-power source610 messages system as employed with smart batteries, or with a powersource 610-to- power source system where a single power source 610assumes master control over the other slave power sources 610 andcommands their power output maximums. Communication between powersources 610 could be accomplished by placing signals over their joinedoutput power lines. The microprocessor in each slave power sources 610would receive the slow down commands from the master power sources 610and reduce power output to prevent battery damage the electronic device611 from overcharge.

[0139]FIG. 6B is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a powersource combination 600B and an electronic device 611B having features ofthe present invention. In this embodiment, the power source combination600B includes a plurality of power sources 610B that are electricallyconnected together. In this embodiment, each power source 610B can havefeatures similar to the power source 510 described above and illustratedin FIGS. 5A and 5B. The number of power sources 610B utilized in thepower source combination 600B can be varied. For example, in FIG. 6B,the power source combination 600B includes three power sources 610B.Alternatively, the power source combination 600B can include more thanthree or less than three power sources 610B.

[0140]FIG. 6C is a perspective view of a third embodiment of a powersource combination 600C and an electronic device 611C having features ofthe present invention. In this embodiment, the power source combination600C includes a plurality of power sources 610C that are electricallyconnected together. In this embodiment, the power source combination600C includes three power source 610C having features similar to thepower source 10 described above and illustrated in FIG. 1A and threepower sources 610C having features similar to the power source 510described above and illustrated in FIGS. 5A and 5B. The number of powersources 610C utilized in the power source combination 600C can bevaried.

[0141] While the particular power sources as shown and disclosed hereinis fully capable of obtaining the objects and providing the advantagesherein before stated, it is to be understood that it is merelyillustrative of the presently preferred embodiments of the invention andthat no limitations are intended to the details of construction ordesign herein shown other than as described in the appended claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A portable power source that is powered by a userto direct electrical energy to an object, the power source comprising: ahousing; a stator component coupled to the housing; a rotor componentthat is moved relative to the stator component by the user to generateelectrical energy; and a control system that receives the electricalenergy and electronically controls the level of an output electricalenergy to the object.
 2. The power source of claim 1 wherein the controlsystem electronically controls the level of an output current to theobject.
 3. The power source of claim 1 wherein the control systemelectronically controls the level of an output voltage to the object. 4.The power source of claim 1 wherein the control system electronicallycontrols the level of an output power to the object.
 5. The power sourceof claim 1 wherein the rotor component rotates relative to the statorcomponent and the control system electronically controls the amount oftorque required to rotate the rotor component.
 6. The power source ofclaim 1 wherein the control system electronically controls the amount offorce required to move the rotor component relative to the statorcomponent.
 7. The power source of claim 1 wherein the control systemelectronically senses an input voltage required by the object.
 8. Thepower source of claim 1 wherein the control system electronically sensesan input power required by the object.
 9. The power source of claim 1further comprising an internal energy storage that stores electricalenergy.
 10. The power source of claim 9 wherein the control systemselectively directs electrical energy to the internal energy storage.11. The power source of claim 10 wherein the control system selectivelybypasses the internal energy storage and directly directs electricalenergy to the object.
 12. The power source of claim 1 wherein theelectrical energy generated by the initial movement of the rotorcomponent relative to the stator component is diverted to provide powerto the control system.
 13. The power source of claim 1 furthercomprising a display that displays a plurality of characters to providea status of charging of the object.
 14. The power source of claim 1further comprising a display that displays graphics to help the usermove the rotor component.
 15. The power source of claim 1 furthercomprising a crank assembly that is coupled to the rotor component sothat movement of the crank assembly by the user results in movement ofthe rotor component.
 16. The power source of claim 15 wherein the crankassembly includes a handle that is adapted to be moved by a hand of theuser.
 17. The power source of claim 15 wherein the crank assemblyincludes a first pedal and a second pedal.
 18. A power sourcecombination including a plurality of power sources of claim 1electrically connected to the object.
 19. A portable power source thatis powered by a user to direct electrical energy to an object, the powersource comprising: a housing; a stator component coupled to the housing;a rotor component that is moved relative to the stator component by theuser to generate electrical energy; a control system that receives theelectrical energy, wherein the electrical energy generated by theinitial movement of the rotor component relative to the stator componentis diverted to provide power to the control system.
 20. The power sourceof claim 19 wherein the control system electronically controls the levelof an output current to the object.
 21. The power source of claim 19wherein the control system electronically controls the level of anoutput voltage to the object.
 22. The power source of claim 19 whereinthe control system electronically controls the level of an output powerto the object.
 23. The power source of claim 19 wherein the rotorcomponent rotates relative to the stator component and the controlsystem electronically controls the amount of torque required to rotatethe rotor component.
 24. The power source of claim 19 wherein thecontrol system electronically controls the amount of force required tomove the rotor component relative to the stator component.
 25. The powersource of claim 19 wherein the control system electronically senses aninput voltage required by the object.
 26. The power source of claim 19wherein the control system electronically senses an input power requiredby the object.
 27. The power source of claim 19 further comprising adisplay that displays a plurality of characters to provide a status ofcharging of the object.
 28. The power source of claim 19 furthercomprising a display that displays graphics to help the user move therotor component.
 29. The power source of claim 19 further comprising acrank assembly that is coupled to the rotor component so that movementof the crank assembly by the user results in movement of the rotorcomponent.
 30. A portable power source that is powered by a user todirect electrical energy to an object, the power source comprising: ahousing; a stator component coupled to the housing; a rotor componentthat is moved relative to the stator component by the user to generateelectrical energy; and a control system that receives the electricalenergy and electronically senses a level of an input electrical energyrequired by the object.
 31. The power source of claim 30 wherein thecontrol system electronically senses a level of an input currentrequired by the object.
 32. The power source of claim 30 wherein thecontrol system electronically senses a level of an input voltagerequired by the object.
 33. The power source of claim 30 wherein thecontrol system electronically senses a level of an input power requiredby the object.
 34. The power source of claim 30 wherein the rotorcomponent rotates relative to the stator component and the controlsystem electronically controls the amount of torque required to rotatethe rotor component.
 35. The power source of claim 30 wherein thecontrol system electronically controls the amount of force required tomove the rotor component relative to the stator component.
 36. The powersource of claim 30 further comprising a crank assembly that is coupledto the rotor component so that movement of the crank assembly by theuser results in movement of the rotor component.
 37. A portable powersource that is powered by a user to direct electrical energy to anobject, the power source comprising: a housing; a stator componentcoupled to the housing; a rotor component that is moved relative to thestator component by the user to generate electrical energy; a controlsystem that receives the electrical energy; and a display that displaysa plurality of characters that provide a status of charging of theobject.
 38. The power source of claim 37 further comprising a crankassembly that is coupled to the rotor component so that movement of thecrank assembly by the user results in movement of the rotor component.39. A portable power source that is powered by a user to directelectrical energy to an object, the power source comprising: a housing;a stator component coupled to the housing; a rotor component that ismoved relative to the stator component by the user to generateelectrical energy; a control system that receives the electrical energy;and a display that displays graphics to help the user move the rotorcomponent.
 40. The power source of claim 39 further comprising a crankassembly that is coupled to the rotor component so that movement of thecrank assembly by the user results in movement of the rotor component.